In a significant pledge for the future of the UK's high streets, Nationwide Building Society has promised to keep all of its branches open for the rest of the decade.
A Stark Contrast to Industry Trends
The building society's commitment stands in direct contrast to the wider trend of bank branch closures across the country. Research from the consumer champion Which? revealed that more than 6,000 bank branches shut their doors between 2015 and early 2025.
Despite this backdrop of retreat from the high street, Nationwide is holding its ground. The mutual currently operates 605 of its own branches, alongside the 91 branches it acquired from Virgin Money. This brings its total physical network to 696 locations.
'We're Staying Put': A Clear Message to Customers
The society has issued a clear and simple update to its customers regarding the future of these sites. In a message displayed in branches, the lender states: 'We're staying put.'
Nationwide has now formally announced that it will keep every one of these 696 Nationwide and Virgin Money branches open until at least the start of 2030. This five-year guarantee offers rare certainty for communities concerned about losing vital banking services.
Explaining the decision, the building society highlighted that its branch network was a key factor in it being awarded Which? Banking Brand of the Year for 2025.
Commitment with Caveats
While the pledge is robust, Nationwide did note that certain unforeseen circumstances could force a closure or relocation within the same town. However, it emphasised that this would only happen 'when there’s no other workable option'.
Debbie Crosbie, Chief Executive Officer of Nationwide, reinforced the society's customer-centric approach. 'Our customers can be confident that they can bank with us whichever way they choose,' she said.
'Branches are important to our customers, to communities, and to the health of our high streets,' Crosbie added. 'That’s why Nationwide will continue to keep branches open in addition to our investment in online and telephone channels.'
This strategy underscores a balanced approach to modern banking, where digital innovation is pursued without abandoning the physical presence that many customers, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, still rely upon.
